Sunday, 10 May 2026
LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM- The Torgamba Police Station has significantly intensified monitoring of illegal fresh fruit bunch (FFB) and palm oil waste collection points across Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency. The move aims to curb the persistent theft of palm oil products, locally known as "Ninja Sawit."
On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at around 10:30 a.m. local time, officers led by Criminal Investigation Unit Chief Iptu Rajo Hamonangan Lubis carried out targeted inspections at several suspected locations, working alongside local residents and village officials.Raids in Aek Batu Area
Read Also:The joint operation focused on multiple palm oil collection points in Aek Batu Village, Torgamba District. Sites inspected included businesses owned by Chandra Ardiansyah in Dusun Permai Pekan, Martua Marbun in Dusun Cikampak Permai, Atif Agung Rialdi in Perumnas Griya Nusa III Aek Torop, and Ichsan Tanjung in Simpang Empat.
Authorities emphasized that strict action will be taken against any operators found purchasing palm oil from unclear or illegal sources.
"Anyone who continues to buy stolen palm products or harvests from individuals without plantations will face legal consequences," Iptu Rajo Hamonangan Lubis stated firmly during the inspection.
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"Ninja Palm Oil" Remains a Persistent Threat
The so-called "Ninja Sawit" phenomenon continues to pose a serious challenge in the region. Large plantation areas and limited surveillance opportunities are frequently exploited by perpetrators.Rising palm oil prices have further fueled theft cases involving fresh fruit bunches and residual harvests. Police, however, stress that buyers play a critical role in sustaining the illegal supply chain.
Read Also:For this reason, enforcement efforts are not only targeting field offenders but also focusing on disrupting distribution networks through tighter monitoring of collection facilities.
Strengthening Community Collaboration
Read Also:The operation involved personnel including AIPTU Henrik Sinaga, AIPDA R. Gultom (community policing officer/Bhabinkamtibmas), Brigadier Sofiadi, and Briptu Surya. Village officials, including Aek Batu Village Secretary Shahrial and several local leaders, also took part.
This collaboration aims to strengthen cooperation between law enforcement and residents in maintaining public security. Authorities also delivered warnings to residents regarding involvement in palm oil theft.
"Theft is a criminal offense. Anyone involved will be prosecuted under the law," Iptu Rajo Hamonangan Lubis added.Residents are urged to report suspicious activities to the Torgamba Police Station or via the emergency hotline 110.
Read Also:Firm Stance Against Illegal Palm Oil Trade
Collection point operators have expressed their commitment to refusing illegally harvested palm oil and supporting police enforcement measures.
Through intensified surveillance, authorities hope to dismantle illegal palm oil trading networks and improve long-term security stability in South Labuhanbatu. (IDNC)REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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